The Lakes Festival returns to make a splash on the Central Coast from 8-17 November with a vibrant curation of music, art, activities, and entertainment. 

This huge celebration of our lakes and waterways brings locals and visitors together to enjoy exciting family-friendly activities, as well as cultural and educational programs hosted by local businesses and community groups.  

This year’s program spans across 14 locations including The Entrance, Wyong, Long Jetty, Budgewoi, Toukley, Gwandalan, Avoca Beach, Ettalong Beach, Killcare, Davistown, Woy Woy, Terrigal and Gosford.

Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said The Lakes Festival continues to be one of the region’s biggest events attracting locals and visitors from afar. 

“It’s been exciting to see the year-on-year growth of this key event, with a record number of applicants wanting to participate in the 2024 program,” Ms Smith said. 

“This year we have additional community event hubs and present our biggest program to date with a showcase of 35 events to enjoy across 10 days. With the program including live music, interactive art workshops and exhibitions, three comedy shows, movie nights, delicious local food vendors, and lots of diverse activities, there is truly something for everyone,” Ms Smith said. 

“Behind the fun and festivities is an important message to share to with attendees to help conserve our precious waterways.”

“The Lakes Festival aims to educate the community and visitors about their role in protecting such an important natural asset. This year we’re taking even more steps to improve our sustainability, with this event officially achieving the ‘Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard’ with Ecotourism Australia.”

“By completing the ‘Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard’, we are demonstrating an active commitment to following sustainable practices. Not only have we switched the paper used for printing to a recyclable, compostable option, but our merchandise is made from recycled materials, is BPA-free and promotes re-use.” 

Some highlights of The Lakes Festival 2024 program:

• Light Up the Lake, The Entrance. Live music from headliner Boo Seeka, with BELLA AMOR, RAAVE Tapes, False London and Daytrip, and plenty of free family friendly activities.
• Three days of comedy including Lakes Festival Comedy Gala with Aussie favourite Heath Franklin's Chopper, and two special Lakes Festival editions of Avoca Beach Comedy Club, Lady Laughs and Local Laughs hosted by Marty Bright.
• Explore the amazing wetlands of Avoca Lagoon on a guided kayaking ecotour and learn about the endangered frogs that call the area home.
• Australian Beach Netball and Beach Soccer Tournament is coming to Terrigal Beach and is a fantastic opportunity to come together, showcase your skills, and enjoy friendly competition.
• The Wonders of Water. Presented by Heartdancers, this free family-friendly event, will explore the relationship between people and water through visual art, dance, music and storytelling. 
• Learn about the Central Coast’s waterway’s own flora, fauna and ecosystem and how you can help care for this precious natural wonder at a number of pop-ups throughout the festival. 

Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said The Lakes Festival highlights some of the region’s best natural qualities and brings people of all ages and backgrounds together. 

“This family-friendly event draws huge crowds, supported by the creative ideas and participation of local Central Coast businesses and groups,” Mayor McKinna said. 

“Last year’s event injected more than $1.2million into the local economy, providing valuable support for local businesses and jobs. I expect that this year’s event will be bigger and better and encourage everyone in the community to come along.”

For all information about The Lakes Festival activities and locations, go to lovecentralcoast.com/lakesfestival

The Lakes Festival is proudly supported by Mounties Group.

ENDS